Return to physical activity six months after fracture – a prospective cohort study

Abstract

Aim Physical activity is important for health but injuries might affect the level of activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate change in physical activity after fracture and to determine predictors for return to a previously high/moderate level of physical activity at 6 months following injury. Methods A cohort study was conducted that included 201 people aged 18–64 years who suffered fractures. Participants reported their level of physical activity prior to the injury and perceived change after six months (n = 164). Subgroup analysis of 95 preinjury physical active participants was performed with logistic regression analysis and odds ratio (OR). Results Totally, 27.4% (n = 45) returned to their previous level of physical activity and for the 95 pre-injury physically active participants it was 27.3% (n = 26). Low income OR 3.15 (95% CI 1.78–28.05), not receiving rehabilitation OR 0.09 (95% CI 0.02–0.37), and sustaining upper limb fractures compared to lower limb fractures OR 0.09 (95% CI 0.02–0.51) were positively associated with return to preinjury physical activity levels at 6 months after controlling for significant factors. Conclusion Fracture affects physical activity at six months even for pre-injury active individuals. Therapists should pay attention to guiding patients to perform physical activities despite their injury.